Johnson: Calipari-to-Indiana rumors untrue
By Gary Parrish, Memphis Commercial Appeal
March 27, 2006
University of Memphis athletic director R.C. Johnson has taken issue with this morning’s report in The Bloomington (Ind.) Herald-Times that cited unnamed sources stating John Calipari is in negotiations to be the next basketball coach at Indiana. "I talked to (Calipari) this morning," Johnson said. "That’s not true." The report – admittedly sourced on "rumor" – states Calipari is in discussions with IU about improving facilities. It suggested he is now the leading candidate to replace Mike Davis, who resigned amid criticism during this past season. When read the above excerpt from the article, Johnson replied "That’s news to me." He added no one from Indiana or a firm working on behalf of Indiana has contacted him to request permission to speak with Calipari in what would be a gesture considered common courtesy among coaching searches.
Calipari, fresh off Saturday’s loss to UCLA in the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament, did not immediately return a phone message seeking comment this afternoon. But Johnson said he and his sixth-year coach will reconvene soon to have the normal season-review meeting, one that could result in an increase to a package that already pays Calipari roughly $1.5 million per year. "He had a great year and we always want to recognize that," Johnson said. "Obviously, I will do anything I can to keep him and his staff."
-- Gary Parrish: (901) 529-2365
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